2003 Mini Cooper Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.65/5 Average
330 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For their second season in the U.S. market, the 2003 Mini Cooper and Cooper S will now come with a second remote key and pre-wiring for a dealer-installed alarm system. Anthracite (smoke gray, that is) interior trim is available as a no-cost option for both cars, and the Cooper S is eligible for the high-gloss silver interior treatment found in the base Cooper. Sound systems will be satellite radio-ready this year, and the rear cargo area now has a power point.

Pros:
  • The thrill of owning a piece of history with modern underpinnings, BMW-engineered suspension and steering, chock full of comfort and safety features, hatchback utility, scheduled maintenance on-the-house for 3 years/36,000 miles.
Cons:
  • Not enough horsepower in base model, questionable seat comfort, not much room for passengers and cargo, price goes up quickly with options, limited supply encourages dealer mark-up.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 330.00
  • Perfect 2003 Cooper S - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    Excellent 2003 model- minimal problems. Car drives perfectly-very smooth. 17"Runflat tires bumpy except on smoothest roads. 16" wheels give better overall ride/lighter weight. Sunroof excellent. Harmon Kardon audio upgrade very good option. Very reliable. Excellent build quality.

  • Definitely a Toy! - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    Id rather drive my Mini when Im alone or I have to shift to a lower gear when I have more weight in the car. Otherwise, no problem with the pep. Very stable on the highway, even when passing large trucks. After 6000 miles, Im getting 30.5 mpg--mostly city driving with only about 80 miles of highway driving per tank. Biggest problem is that it sits so low to the ground, its hard to find automatic car washes with rails that are low enough. My Mini was meant to be driven CLEAN, especially since I opted for the white wheels. Living in the cold north makes this difficult!

  • Lovin it! - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    So many car models exist to choose from; I have owned quite a few! Yet I have never before had a car that is so complete in its personality. It is a truly unique motoring experience. Yes it is small, so back seat riders arent going to be so comfortable on a cross-country and I need to borrow my wifes minivan to bring home drywall from the home center. But that small size makes for an intimate driving experience, fantasticly nimble handling, and great fuel economy. Its a delightful combination!

  • Beatin it hard and loving it! - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    Ive had the car for about 6 months and already have 12000 miles on it. Every one was fun. I live in the hills above the Bay Area (near Skyline Blvd, for thos that know the area) and every day I drive up and down the hills and really love it! Motorcycles have to lean about 50 degrees to keep up with me. They can go faster, but really have to work it to do so. The car is great. There will be lots of "quirky" cars coming out (like the Honda Element) that are very practical. This is one that is more fun that almost anything Ive ever driven, and much less expensive for the quality, features and performance.

  • Mini BMW - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    Has the excellent electronics as my previous 323 BMW. However, AM radio reception just as poor. Everything else is a drivers heaven. Amazing handling. Changed my lease to a purchase. Im keeping this one.

  • Hot Ride! - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    I already have another second Mini on order! My son just called to thank me for lending him the car for a road trip to San Diego. He said "Cruisin along the 405 following a BMW Dad, going 80 and getting 35.5 MPG, pretty amazing." The Mini is a blast to drive, with its go-cart-like handling and super brakes. On the downside it is short on brute horsepower, but hey getting to speed is half the fun anyway because the gearbox is as precise as is the clutch. The car is just for two since the rear seats are only good for small kids or small pets. this car is a great value. Happy motoring!

  • Its amazing, but... - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    I found that if I really drive it like a sports car, the city gas mileage drops down to the 12-15mpg range! Drive it like your grandma and maybe you can get 25mpg. The leather is really cheap quality. After 3 months it is already creasing and showing signs of wear. Other than that it is definately a fun car, very safe and performs well. Be aware the service is done by BMW and that can lead to some frustration.

  • You owe this car a test drive! - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    The engine really loosens up after break-in. The cars suspension is very tight, so those that want to feel like theyre floating on a cloud may I point you towards a 7-series. Let me ask you something: On gokarts is the ride cushy and bump-free? No. Do you feel connected to the road? Yes. Does driving one put a grin on your face? It darn should! This is a brand new from the ground up car. OF COURSE its going to have a few issues in its first production year, which I will gladly forgive. Thats what a warranty is for. Note: my Cooper S has been very good to me.

  • An SUV killer - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    Have put 4,500 miles on vehicle in about five weeks, and am gradually wearing thin of the attention vehicle is garnering wherever I drive. Bought the electric blue/white S version sight unseen, and, as of this writing, by far the most fun vehicle I have ever driven. Have yet to try more than 2 people, but plenty large and comfy for 2 large adults. IT IS A BLAST TO DRIVE!!

  • I love my mini - 2003 Mini Cooper
    By -

    I love it and the look and feel is so cool. It fun to drive and runs down the road so nice.

Mini Cooper Reviews By Year:
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